Nairobi Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Travel & Safety
Is Nairobi safe for tourists?
Nairobi is generally safe, but like any major city, it requires caution. Many travelers report feeling safe, especially when using common-sense precautions.
There are some differing opinions on this, with some locals advising tourists to be very cautious, while others say it’s a friendly city.
What are the main safety precautions to take?
Avoid walking alone at night.
Do not walk around in the Central Business District (CBD) at night.
Be aware of your surroundings and avoid looking like a lost tourist.
Keep valuables, especially phones, out of sight. Don’t use your phone with your car windows open.
If you get lost, ask a uniformed guard for help rather than a random person.
Don’t carry more cash or valuables than you are willing to lose.
Should I hire a local guide?
Yes, many travelers recommend hiring a local guide, especially for exploring areas like the CBD. A guide can help you navigate the city, avoid scams, and provide cultural insights.
Are there political protests or civil unrest I should be aware of?
Protests do occur and are often announced beforehand. It’s best to avoid the CBD and other protest-heavy areas on those days.
Is it a good idea to visit Nairobi as a solo female traveler?
While some sources discuss this, general safety advice applies. It is possible, but being cautious, using reputable guides and transport, and staying in safe neighborhoods are key.
How long should I spend in Nairobi?
Some people recommend just one day to see the main sights before heading out on safari, while others say you can easily spend several days exploring the city’s attractions, food scene, and cultural sites.
Is it better to stay in a hotel or an Airbnb?
Hotels can be overpriced. Many people suggest Airbnbs as a good alternative for a solo stay if you’re looking to save money.
Which neighborhoods are good to stay in?
Karen and Westlands are frequently recommended as safe areas with good restaurants, clubs, and access to attractions. Kilimani is also mentioned as an affluent and safe neighborhood.
Getting Around
What’s the best way to get around Nairobi?
Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are highly recommended as they are affordable and secure.
Negotiate the price with a standard taxi driver before getting in the car, as most don’t have meters.
Is it safe to walk around?
Walking is an option in some central areas like the CBD during the daytime, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings due to the risk of pickpocketing. Walking at night is not recommended.
What is a “matatu” and should I use them?
Matatus are shared minibuses and the most common form of public transport for locals. They are cheap but can be crowded, uncomfortable, and driven erratically. Tourists are often advised against using them due to the risk of pickpockets and for safety reasons.
What about public buses?
Public buses, such as those from the Kenya Bus Service (KBS), are considered a safer option than matatus for budget travelers.
Can I drive myself in Nairobi?
Driving in Nairobi is often described as “terrible and dangerous” due to traffic and local driving habits. It’s generally recommended to hire a professional driver.
How bad is the traffic?
Nairobi traffic is notorious. Be prepared for significant delays, with some travelers reporting being stuck for 10-40 minutes at a time. This should be factored into your travel plans.
Money & Currency
What currency should I use?
The Kenyan Shilling (KES) is the national currency.
Should I use US Dollars?
No. Do not pay with USD. You will be seen as a tourist and may be overcharged or targeted. It’s also not widely accepted.
How should I handle money?
Get a SIM card and set up an M-Pesa account, which is a mobile money service that is widely used for payments.
Wise.com is recommended for getting good exchange rates and using a debit card.
Many places accept cards, but it’s good to have some cash on hand.
Where can I exchange money?
There are forex bureaus at the airport, but they may not offer the best rates. You can also find them in the CBD.
Top Attractions & Things to Do
What are the must-see tourist attractions?
Nairobi National Park: A unique wildlife sanctuary where you can see lions, rhinos, giraffes, and more against the city skyline.
Giraffe Centre: An opportunity for close encounters with Rothschild giraffes.
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: An elephant orphanage where you can see baby elephants being fed and cared for.
Maasai Market: A popular open-air market for authentic crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. Be prepared to haggle.
The Bomas of Kenya: A cultural center showcasing traditional Kenyan homesteads and performances (note: some reports suggest it may be closed temporarily).
Karura Forest: A peaceful urban forest with walking and biking trails.
What about day trips from Nairobi?
Hell’s Gate National Park is a highly recommended day trip for its beautiful scenery and the opportunity to bike among wildlife.
Nakuru National Park and Amboseli National Park are also popular options for a safari day trip.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots?
Kuona Arts Collective is mentioned as a cool art space.
Kitengela Hot Glass is recommended for a unique experience and has accommodation options.
The Nairobi Arboretum is a great spot for nature walks and relaxation.
What about shopping?
Maasai Market is for souvenirs and crafts.
For modern shopping, Two Rivers Mall and Village Market are large complexes with a wide array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Is there good nightlife?
Westlands is a popular neighborhood for nightlife with restaurants, clubs, and casinos.
K1 Klub House and The Alchemist are mentioned as good spots for music, drinks, and a lively atmosphere.
Food & Drink
Where can I find local food?
Carnivore is a famous restaurant known for its local meats.
Nairobi Street Kitchen is a “boujee” food court mentioned for its variety of food stalls.
Is street food safe to eat?
Some sources advise against street food unless you want to “immerse yourself in the Kenyan vibe,” suggesting potential health risks for tourists.
Are there good coffee shops?
Yes, look beyond the big chains for local gems like Spinner’s Web.
What’s a recommended Kenyan dish?
Nyamachoma (roasted meat) is a popular and delicious local dish to try.
Is the water safe to drink?
No, do not drink tap water. Stick to bottled water.
Other Tips & Advice
What’s the weather like?
March is described as a great time to visit after the long rains, with plenty of sun.
What language should I know?
Swahili is the national language. Learning a few basic phrases like habari (hello), asante (thank you), and kwaheri (goodbye) is helpful and appreciated.
What about security checks?
Security checks are common. Be prepared to go through metal detectors and have your bags x-rayed when entering many buildings, parking lots, and markets.
Can I use my credit card everywhere?
Many places accept cards, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand, as some smaller vendors may not. Ubers may also prefer cash payments, as card payments can take longer for them to receive.
What is M-Pesa?
M-Pesa is a mobile banking and payment service that is essential for day-to-day transactions in Kenya. Getting a local SIM card to use M-Pesa is highly recommended.
What should I expect from locals?
Most locals are friendly and welcoming. The stares you may receive are often out of curiosity and are generally harmless.
There may be people, including children, who approach you to sell things or ask for money. They are typically harmless but can be persistent.